Admissions
School of Theology
• Faculty • Introduction
• Masters’ Programs • Doctoral Programs
“The School of Theology seeks to provide biblical and theological training
foundational for church-related ministries as well
as roles which require advanced theological training.”
Administration
Dean:
Gregory A. Wills, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Dean:
Donald S. Whitney, D.Min.
Associate Dean, Scripture and Interpretation:
Thomas R. Schreiner, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, Worldview and Culture:
James Parker, III, D.Theol.
Associate Dean, Ministry and Proclamation:
Hershael W. York, Ph.D.
Dean
Gregory A. Wills
Dean of the School of Theology;
Professor of Church History (1997);
Director of the Center for the Study of
the Southern Baptist Convention
B.S., Duke University; M.Div., GordonConwell Theological Seminary;
Th.M., Duke University; Ph.D., Emory
University
Dr. Wills was appointed to the faculty of Southern
Seminary in 1997 after serving since 1994 as Archives and
Special Collections Librarian with the seminary’s Boyce
Centennial Library. Dr. Wills’ dissertation, Democratic
Religion: Freedom, Authority, and Church Discipline in
the Baptist South, 1785-1900, was published by Oxford
University Press. Besides contributions to theological
journals, Dr. Wills has also written Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary, 1859-2009.
Faculty
Scripture and
Interpretation Division
Department of Old Testament
Terry J. Betts
Associate Professor of Old Testament
Interpretation (2001)
B.S.Ed., Wright State University;
M.Div., Ph.D., The Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary; Additional
Studies: Jerusalem University College
Dr. Betts is a fifth generation Southern Baptist minister
who has pastored fourteen years in Ohio and Indiana. Dr.
Betts is a frequent preacher and Bible conference speaker
and member of the Evangelical Theological Society. He
has also participated in an archaeological dig at Hazor.
He has written Ezekiel the Priest: A Custodian of Tora.
He contributed a chapter to The Challenge of the Great
Commission, has written for Holman Bible Dictionary,
The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, and The Tie,
and has contributed to a number of articles for Biblical
Illustrator. His most recent work is Amos: An Ordinary
Man with an Extraordinary Message.
Russell T. Fuller
Professor of Old Testament
Interpretation (1998)
B.S., M.A., Bob Jones University;
M.Phil., Ph.D., Hebrew Union College;
Doctoral Studies, The Dropsie College
With an interest in Old Testament and Ancient Near
Eastern languages, literature and history, Dr.
Fuller’s addition to the Southern Seminary faculty
enriches the Old Testament Department. Before his
appointment in 1998, he was Assistant Professor of
Bible and Bible Languages at Mid-Continent College and
interim pastor in Ohio and Kentucky. He is co-author of
An Invitation to Biblical Hebrew.
page 42 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Duane A. Garrett
George H. Martin
B.A., Rice University; M.Div., Trinity
Evangelical Divinity School; Ph.D.,
Baylor University
B.S., Florida State University; M.Div.,
Th.D., New Orleans Baptist Theological
Seminary; Additional Studies: Asbury
Theological Seminary
John R. Sampey Professor of Old
Testament Interpretation (2004)
Dr. Garrett brings to Southern Seminary many years of
teaching, writing, research and pastoral experience. He
has served on the faculty of Gordon-Conwell Theological
Seminary, Bethel Seminary, Canadian Southern Baptist
Seminary, Mid-America Baptist Seminary and Korea
Baptist Seminary. His books include Song of Songs in
the Word Biblical Commentary; A Modern Grammar
for Classical Hebrew; Angels and the New Spirituality;
Authority and Interpretation; and Hosea; and Joel in
the New American Commentary. He also serves as the
general editor for The Archaeology Study Bible from
Zondervan Press.
Professor of Biblical Studies (1996)
Dr. Martin served and taught in the Pacific Rim from
1988 to 1994. He was professor and academic dean at
the Jakarta Baptist Theological Seminary and he has
also served as a professor at the Asia Baptist Graduate
Theological Seminary. He was Associate Professor of
Religion at North Greenville College before joining
the faculty at Southern. Dr. Martin is a member of the
Evangelical Missiological Society, Evangelical Theological
Society, and American Society of Missiology.
Department of New Testament
William F. Cook, III
Peter J. Gentry
Professor of Old Testament
Interpretation (1999)
B.A., University of Toronto;
M.A., Dallas Theological Seminary;
Ph.D., Jerusalem University College
Dr. Gentry comes to Southern with an expansive
knowledge of biblical languages. He served on the faculty
of Toronto Baptist Seminary and Bible College for 15
years and taught at the University of Toronto, Heritage
Theological Seminary, and Tyndale Theological Seminary.
Dr. Gentry is the author of many articles and book
reviews, and has given presentations to groups, such as
the International Organization for the Study of the Old
Testament and the Society of Biblical Literature, of which
he is also a member. He is currently editing Ecclesiastes
and Proverbs for the Gšttingen Septuagint Series and is
giving leadership to the Hexapla Institute. He coauthored
Kingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological
Understanding of the Covenants with Stephen Wellum.
Professor of New Testament
Interpretation (2000)
B.A., University of Central Florida;
M.Div., Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary; Ph.D., New
Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
Prior to coming to Southern, Dr. Cook was Associate
Professor of New Testament and Chair of the Theology
Division at Florida Baptist Theological College where he
taught for nine years. He is the author of several articles
and numerous book reviews. Dr. Cook has served as a
pastor and interim pastor in Louisiana, Alabama, and
Florida, and is currently the pastor of Ninth and O Baptist
Church. He is a member of the Evangelical Theological
Society.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 43
Jonathan T. Pennington
Associate Professor of New Testament
Interpretation (2005); Director of
Research Doctoral Studies
B.A., Northern Illinois University;
M.Div., Trinity Evangelical Divinity
School; Ph.D., University of St.
Andrews, Scotland
Dr. Pennington comes to us from the University of St.
Andrews in Scotland where he completed a Ph.D. in New
Testament Studies. His areas of teaching and research
interest focus on the Gospels, hermeneutics, and the
history of interpretation. Along with numerous articles,
Dr. Pennington has written works on both Greek and
Hebrew vocabulary, in addition to the books, Heaven and
Earth In the Gospel of Matthew and Reading the Gospel
Wisely: A Narrative and Theological Introduction.
Robert L. Plummer
Professor of New Testament
Interpretation (2002)
B.A., Duke University; M.Div., Ph.D.,
The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary; Additional Studies:
Jerusalem University College
Epistles; The Law and Its Fulfillment: A Pauline Theology
of Law; The Race Set Before Us: A Biblical Theology of
Perseverance and Assurance; Still Sovereign, co-edited
with Bruce A. Ware; Magnifying God in Christ: A Summary
of New Testament Theology; and The King in His Beauty:
A Biblical Theology of the Old and New Testament.
Mark A. Seifrid
Mildred and Ernest Hogan Professor of
New Testament Interpretation (1992)
B.S., University of Illinois; M.A., M.Div.,
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School;
Ph.D., Princeton Theological Seminary;
Additional Studies: Universität
Tübingen
Before joining the Southern faculty, Dr. Seifrid
served as Visiting Lecturer at Wheaton College and
at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is a member
of the Society of New Testament Studies and the
Society of Biblical Literature. He previously served as a
campus minister with the Navigators at the University
of Michigan and the University of Illinois. Along with
numerous articles, he is the author of Justification by
Faith and Christ Our Righteousness and a contributor to
Perspectives on Our Struggle with Sin: Three Views of
Romans 7.
Brian J. Vickers
Dr. Plummer is a biblical scholar with a missionary
heart. He is a member of the Evangelical Theological
Society and the Institute for Biblical Research and has
authored or edited Paul’s Understanding of the Church’s
Mission; 40 Questions about Interpreting the Bible;
Journeys of Faith; Missions According to Paul; The Story
of Scripture; and Understanding the Bible as well as
numerous scholarly articles and essays.
Thomas R. Schreiner
James Buchanan Harrison Professor
of New Testament Interpretation
(1997); Associate Dean, Scripture and
Interpretation
B.S., Western Oregon University;
M.Div., Th.M., Western Seminary;
Ph.D., Fuller Theological Seminary
Associate Professor of New Testament
Interpretation (2004); Associate
Editor, The Southern Baptist Journal of
Theology
B.A., West Virginia University; M.A.,
Wheaton College; M.Div., Ph.D., The
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Dr. Vickers currently serves as the Assistant Editor of
The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology. Dr. Vickers
is actively involved in leading short-term mission trips
and teaching overseas. He is also a member of The
Evangelical Theological Society. He has written Jesus’
Blood and Righteousness: Paul’s Theology of Imputation,
and has published articles in Trinity Journal, The Southern
Baptist Journal of Theology, Eusebia, Gospel Witness, and
The New Holman Bible Dictionary.
Dr. Schreiner joined the Southern faculty in 1997 after
serving 11 years on the faculty at Bethel Theological
Seminary. He also taught New Testament at Azusa Pacific
University. Dr. Schreiner, a Pauline scholar, is the author
or editor of several books including, Theology of the New
Testament; Romans, the Baker Exegetical Commentary
Series on the New Testament; Interpreting the Pauline
page 44 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Jarvis J. Williams
Associate Professor of New Testament
Interpretation (2013)
B.S. Boyce College; M.Div., Th.M.,
Ph.D., The Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Dr. Williams is an accomplished author and esteemed
speaker on topics such as the Pauline Epistles, the
function of the Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha in early
Christianity, sacrifice and atonement, and race/ethnicity
in the Pauline letters. He is a member of the American
Academy of Religion, the Evangelical Theological Society,
the Institute for Biblical Research, and the Society of
Biblical Literature. In addition to numerous essays and
articles, Dr. Williams is the author of Maccabean Martyr
Traditions in Paul’s Theology of Atonement: Did Martyr
Theology Shape Paul’s Conception of Jesus’s Death?; One
New Man: The Cross and Racial Reconciliation in Pauline
Theology; and For Whom Did Christ Die? The Extent of
the Atonement in Paul’s Theology.
Department of Biblical Theology
James M. Hamilton
Professor of Biblical Theology (2008)
B. A., University of Arkansas; Th.M.,
Dallas Theological Seminary; Ph.D.,
The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary
Before coming to Southern, Dr. Hamilton served as
Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at Southwestern
Baptist Theological Seminary’s Houston campus and was
the preaching pastor at Baptist Church of the Redeemer.
He currently serves as the preaching pastor at Kenwood
Baptist Church. He has written God’s Glory in Salvation
through Judgment: A Biblical Theology and God’s Indwelling
Presence: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Old and New
Testaments. He has contributed chapters to many other
books, and has authored many scholarly articles.
Theology and Tradition Division
Department of Church History
and Historical Theology
Michael A. G. Haykin
Professor of Church History and
Biblical Spirituality (2008); Director,
The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist
Studies
B.A., University of Toronto; M.Rel.,
Wycliffe College and Univ. of Toronto;
Th.D., Wycliffe College and Univ. of
Toronto
Dr. Haykin has authored The Spirit of God: The
Exegesis of 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Pneumatomachian
Controversy of the Fourth Century; One Heart and One
Soul: John Sutcliff of Olney, His Friends, and His Times;
Kiffin, Knollys and Keach: Rediscovering Our English
Baptist Heritage; ‘At the Pure Fountain of Thy Word’:
Andrew Fuller as an Apologist; Jonathan Edwards: The
Holy Spirit in Revival; The God who draws near: An
Introduction to Biblical Spirituality and Rediscovering the
Church Fathers: Who They Were and How They Shaped
the Church.
Thomas J. Nettles
Professor of Historical Theology (1997)
B.A., Mississippi College; M.Div., Ph.D.,
Southwestern Baptist Theological
Seminary
Dr. Nettles has taught in theological education since
1976 and has published regularly in his field since 1977.
He came to Southern Seminary from Trinity Evangelical
Divinity School, where he was Professor of Church
History and Chair of the Department of Church History.
He previously taught at Southwestern Baptist Theological
Seminary and Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary.
Along with numerous journal articles and scholarly
papers, Dr. Nettles is the author and editor of sixteen
books. Among his books are By His Grace and For
His Glory; Baptists and the Bible, co-authored with L.
Russ Bush; Why I Am a Baptist, co-edited with Russell
D. Moore; James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist
Statesman; and Living by Revealed Truth: The Life and
Pastoral Theology of Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 45
David L. Puckett
Professor of Church History (2002)
B.A., Mississippi College; Th.M., Dallas
Theological Seminary; Ph.D., University
of Chicago
addition to teaching at Southern, he is active in teaching
on the mission field. He is also a member of the Evangelical
Theological Society. In addition to contributions in journals,
Dr. Wright co-edited Believer’s Baptism: Sign of the
New Covenant In Christ (2007) with Tom Schreiner; and
cotributed a chapter to The Lord’s Supper: Remembering
and Proclaiming Christ Until He Comes.
Department of Christian Theology
Prior to coming to Southern Seminary, Dr. Puckett
served as Professor of Church History and Director
of Th.M. and Ph.D. Studies at Southeastern Baptist
Theological Seminary and as Founding Headmaster of
Trinity Academy of Raleigh, North Carolina. He previously
taught Historical Theology at Dallas Theological Seminary
and Church History and Theology at Criswell College.
He has academic interests in the areas of the history of
biblical interpretation, the Protestant Reformation, and
Christianity and social reform in England in the eighteenth
and nineteenth centuries. Dr. Puckett is the author of
John Calvin’s Exegesis of the Old Testament.
Gregory A. Wills
Professor of Church History (1997);
Dean of the School of Theology;
Director of the Center for the Study of
the Southern Baptist Convention
B.S., Duke University; M.Div., GordonConwell Theological Seminary;
Th.M., Duke University; Ph.D., Emory
University
Dr. Wills was appointed to the faculty of Southern
Seminary in 1997 after serving since 1994 as Archives and
Special Collections Librarian with the seminary’s Boyce
Centennial Library. Dr. Wills’ dissertation, Democratic
Religion: Freedom, Authority, and Church Discipline in
the Baptist South, 1785-1900, was published by Oxford
University Press. Besides contributions to theological
journals, Dr. Wills has also written Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary, 1859-2009.
Gregg R. Allison
Professor of Christian Theology (2003)
B.S., Northern Illinois University;
M.Div., Ph.D., Trinity Evangelical
Divinity School
Dr. Allison came to Southern from Western Seminary,
where he taught theology and church history for nine
years. He has eighteen years of ministry experience as
a staff member of Campus Crusade. He has served as
a missionary to Italy and Switzerland, and as a pastor
in Switzerland. He has served for over a decade as the
book review editor for the Journal of the Evangelical
Theological Society, and now as the secretary of the
Evangelical Theological Society. He has authored
Historical Theology: An Introduction to Christian
Theology; Getting Deep: Understand What You Believe
About God and Why; Jesusology: Understand What You
Believe About Jesus and Why; Sojourners and Strangers;
and various chapters in edited books and scholarly
articles.
Phillip R. Bethancourt
Assistant Professor of Christian
Theology (2011)
B.A., M.S., Texas A&M University;
M.Div., Ph.D., The Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Shawn D. Wright
Associate Professor of Church History
(2001)
B.A., Duke University; M.Div., GordonConwell Theological Seminary; Ph.D.,
The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary
Dr. Wright came to Southern Seminary after serving
Southern Baptist churches in New England. He has been
active in church planting and pastoring and currently
serves as one of the pastors at Clifton Baptist Church. In
Dr. Bethancourt has served Southern Seminary since
2006, holding positions as Director of Academic Advising
for the School of Theology and Director of Research
Doctoral Studies and Academic Advising and Instructor
of Christian Theology at Boyce College. Prior to his
current role, he was Executive Assistant to the Senior
Vice President for Academic Administration. Since 2013,
Dr. Bethancourt has served Southern Baptists as Director
of Strategic Incentives for the Ethics and Religious Liberty
Commission.
page 46 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Chad O. Brand
Bruce A. Ware
B.A., Rockmont College; M.Div.,
Ph.D., Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary; Graduate
Studies: University of Texas at
Arlington, Texas Christian University
A.S., Judson Baptist College; Cert.,
Capernwray Bible School, Carnforth,
England; B.A., Whitworth College;
M.Div., Th.M., Western Conservative
Baptist Seminary; M.A., University of
Washington; Ph.D., Fuller Theological
Seminary
Professor of Christian Theology
(2001)
Dr. Brand is gifted as a scholar, apologist, pastor, and
student of contemporary culture and religion. He also
serves as Associate Dean of Biblical and Theological
Studies at Boyce College. Before coming to Louisville,
he taught at North Greenville College. He has taught
over 25 different types of classes and seminars and
has delivered over 30 papers to groups, such as the
Evangelical Theological Society. Dr. Brand is the author
of many articles and reviews, and co-edited Perspectives
on Church Government: Five Views of Church Polity and
Perspectives on Spirit Baptism: Five Views.
R. Albert Mohler, Jr.
Joseph Emerson Brown Professor of
Christian Theology (1993); President
of The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary
B.A., Samford University; M.Div., Ph.D.,
The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary
Dr. Mohler became the ninth president of The Southern
Baptist Theological Seminary in August 1993. Before
assuming the office of president, Dr. Mohler served as
editor of the Christian Index, the state paper for Georgia
Baptists. He also served as Assistant to the President
at Southern Seminary. A leader among Baptists and
American evangelicals, Dr. Mohler is widely respected as
a theologian, speaker, and author. Time.com called him
the “reigning intellectual of the evangelical movement
in the U.S.” In addition to his presidential duties, Dr.
Mohler hosts two programs: The Briefing and Thinking
in Public. He also writes a popular blog and a regular
commentary on moral, cultural and theological issues. All
of these can be accessed through Dr. Mohler’s website,
www.AlbertMohler.com. In addition to contributing
to a number of collected volumes, he is the author of
several books, including Culture Shift: Engaging Current
Issues with Timeless Truth; Desire & Deceit: The Real
Cost of the New Sexual Tolerance; Atheism Remix: A
Christian Confronts the New Atheists; He Is Not Silent:
Preaching in a Postmodern World; The Disappearance of
God: Dangerous Beliefs in the New Spiritual Openness;
Words From the Fire: Hearing the Voice of God in the
Ten Commandments; and Conviction to Lead: The 25
Principles for Leadership That Matters.
Professor of Christian Theology (1998)
Dr. Ware came to Southern from Trinity Evangelical
Divinity School where he served as Chairman of the
Department of Biblical and Systematic Theology. Prior to
this, he taught at Western Conservative Baptist Seminary
and at Bethel Theological Seminary. Dr. Ware has written
numerous journal articles, book chapters, and book
reviews and, along with Thomas Schreiner, has co-edited
Still Sovereign. He has authored God’s Lesser Glory: The
Diminished God of Open Theism; God’s Greater Glory: The
Exalted God of Scripture and the Christian Faith; Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit: Relationships, Roles, and Relevance;
Big Truths for Young Hearts: Teaching and Learning the
Greatness of God; and others.
Stephen J. Wellum
Professor of Christian Theology
(1999); Editor, The Southern Baptist
Journal of Theology
B.S., Roberts Wesleyan College; M.Div.,
Ph.D., Trinity Evangelical Divinity
School
Dr. Wellum has served as faculty of Associated
Canadian Theological Schools and Northwest Baptist
Theological College and Seminary, senior pastor and
interim pastor in South Dakota and Kentucky, and as a
conference speaker in the U.S., Canada, and the UK. He
is also a member of the Evangelical Theological Society
and the Evangelical Philosophical Society. Dr. Wellum
has written numerous journal articles and book reviews
including the Journal of the Evangelical Theological
Society and Southern Baptist Journal of Theology. He has
also written articles and book chapters in The Believer’s
Baptism and Holman Bible Dictionary, and Reclaiming
the Center, Beyond the Bounds, and The Compromised
Church. He co-authored Kingdom Through Covenant: A
Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants with
Peter Gentry.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 47
Worldview and Culture Division
Department of Christian Philosophy
Theodore J. Cabal
Professor of Christian Philosophy and
Applied Apologetics (1998)
B.A., M.A., Dallas Baptist University;
M.Div., Ph.D., Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Once an ardent atheist, Dr. Cabal was converted while
reading the New Testament Gospels. He has planted and
pastored several churches, and served on the faculties
of Dallas Baptist University and Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary before coming to Southern. His
interest in helping others to know the truth in Christ
has motivated his numerous college campus talks and
debates with philosophy professors. In addition to journal
articles on issues such as postmodernism and the age of
the earth controversy, Dr. Cabal is the general editor of
The Apologetics Study Bible.
Mark T. Coppenger
Professor of Christian Apologetics
(2004); Vice President for Extension
Education; Director of the Nashville
Extension Center
B.A., Ouachita Baptist University; M.A.,
Ph.D., Vanderbilt University; M.Div.,
Southwestern Baptist Theological
Seminary
Before attending seminary, Dr. Coppenger taught at
Wheaton and Vanderbilt, where he directed a project for
the National Endowment for the Humanities. He has also
served as a pastor in Arkansas; executive director of the
State Convention of Baptists in Indiana; chairman of the
SBC Resolutions Committee; president of Midwestern
Seminary; and short-term missionary to seven countries.
He is also a retired infantry officer. Dr. Coppenger is
managing editor of the online Kairos Journal and has
authored, edited, or contributed to numerous books.
His articles and reviews have appeared in Teaching
Philosophy, Touchstone, Criswell Review, Reformation and
Revival, World, USA Today, and others.
James Parker, III
Professor of Worldview and Culture
(1999); Associate Dean, Worldview
and Culture
B.A., Baylor University; M.A., Trinity
Evangelical Divinity School; M.Div.,
Th.M., Princeton Theological Seminary;
D.Theol., Basel University, Basel,
Switzerland; Post-Doctoral Studies:
Johns Hopkins University
Dr. Parker joined the faculty at Southern after founding
and directing The Trinity Institute for nine years. In
addition to The Trinity Institute, he has taught at various
seminaries and colleges, and has been involved with
Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship. Dr. Parker is the former
editor of Foundations, an international theological journal,
as well as the author of several publications.
Department of Christian Ethics
Kenneth Magnuson
Professor of Christian Ethics (1999)
B.A., Bethel College; M.Div., Bethel
Theological Seminary; Ph.D., University
of Cambridge
Dr. Kenneth Magnuson joined the faculty of Southern
Seminary in 1999. Dr. Magnuson teaches on a wide
range of topics in Christian Ethics and Theology, and
has presented conference papers and published articles
on topics such as sexual morality, marriage, infertility,
contraception, capital punishment, war and pacifism, and
others. In addition to teaching, Dr. Magnuson has served
in ministry and administrative opportunities, including
disaster relief, mission trips, college student ministry, and
chaplaincy. He currently serves as a Deacon in his church,
as an ethics consultant at a local hospital, on the editorial
board for Themelios, and on the board of the American
Friends of Tyndale House. He was a contributor to the
Handbook of Christian Higher Education.
page 48 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Ministry and Proclamation
Division
Department of Christian Preaching
David E. Prince
Assistant Professor of Christian
Preaching (2012)
B.A., Huntingdon College;
M.Div., Southwestern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Ph.D., The Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Dr. Prince brings to Southern Seminary many years
of teaching, writing, and pastoral experience, having
previously served Southern Seminary adjunctively
since 2006, teaching courses on preaching and pastoral
ministry. In addition to his role on the faculty, he is
also the pastor of Ashland Avenue Baptist Church in
Lexington, Kentucky.
Kevin L. Smith
Assistant Professor of Christian
Preaching (2006)
B.S., Hampton University; M.Div.,
Church of God Theological Seminary;
Ph.D. (candidate), The Southern
Baptist Theological Seminary
Before being appointed to the faculty, Professor
Smith served Southern as the Martin Luther King, Jr.
Fellow from 2002-2006. He has been a church planter
in Tennessee and a pastor in Tennessee and Kentucky,
currently serving Highview Baptist Church as Teaching
Pastor. He is a conference preacher and has taken shortterm missions trips to the Caribbean and Africa. He has
served in a variety of capacities with the Kentucky Baptist
Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention.
Robert A. Vogel
Carl E. Bates Professor of Christian
Preaching (2003); Associate Vice
President for Institutional Assessment;
Director, Advanced Master of Divinity
Program
B.A., Western Bible Institute; M.Div.,
Th.M., Western Conservative Baptist
Seminary; M.A., Portland State
University; Ph.D., University of Oregon
Prior to joining the faculty at Southern, Dr. Vogel
served as Professor of Homiletics at Western Seminary,
a position he had held since 1978. While at Western
Seminary, he served as Director of the Doctor of Ministry
program from 1984-2000 and as Associate Academic
Dean for eight years. He was also the chairman of the
Division of Pastoral and Church Ministries at Western
Seminary. In addition to his many years of teaching, Dr.
Vogel also has more than twenty years of active church
ministry, during which time he held positions as minister
of youth and music, pastor, pulpit supply and interim
pastor. Dr. Vogel is also a member of the Evangelical
Theological Society.
Hershael W. York
Victor and Louise Lester Professor of
Christian Preaching (1997); Associate
Dean, Ministry and Proclamation
B.A., M.A., University of Kentucky;
M.Div., Ph.D., Mid-America Baptist
Theological Seminary
Before joining the faculty of Southern Seminary, Dr.
York led the congregation of Ashland Avenue Baptist
Church in Lexington. Since coming to Southern, Dr. York
has authored two books on speaking and preaching,
has been featured in Preaching Today as one of the
best preachers in North America, has spoken at the
International Congress on preaching, and has served as
the President of the Kentucky Baptist Convention. He
is currently the pastor of Buck Run Baptist Church in
Frankfort and frequently ministers in Brazil and Romania.
He has also served as pastor of First Baptist Church of
Marion, Arkansas, and served as Chancellor of Lexington
Baptist College.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 49
Department of Practical Ministry
Donald S. Whitney
Associate Professor of Biblical
Spirituality (2005); Senior Associate
Dean of the School of Theology
B.A., Arkansas State University; M.Div.,
Southwestern Baptist Theological
Seminary; D.Min., Trinity Evangelical
Divinity School; Ph.D., University of the
Free State (South Africa)
Dr. Whitney came to Southern from Midwestern
Baptist Theological Seminary, where he was Associate
Professor of Spiritual Formation for ten years. He also
served in pastoral ministry for twenty-four years. He
has authored Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life;
Spiritual Disciplines Within the Church; How Can I Be Sure
I’m a Christian?; Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual
Health; Simplify Your Spiritual Life; and Family Worship.
Dr. Whitney is a popular conference speaker, especially
on personal and congregational spirituality.
Department of Biblical Counseling and
Family Studies
Eric L. Johnson
Jeremy P. Pierre
Assistant Professor of Biblical
Counseling (2011); Dean of Students
B.A., Cedarville University; M.A.,
Cleveland State University; M.Div.,
Ph.D., The Southern Baptist
Theological Seminary
Prior to joining the faculty of Southern Seminary, Dr.
Pierre was Instructor of Literature and Culture at Boyce
College. He was the Director of its Writing Center since
2002. Dr. Pierre focuses on the practical aspects of
biblical interpretation and theology in caring for people
with the life-giving gospel of Jesus Christ. He also serves
as Pastor of Member Care at Clifton Baptist Church.
Stuart W. Scott
Associate Professor of Biblical
Counseling (2005);
B.A., Columbia International
University; M.Div., Grace Theological
Seminary; D.Min., Covenant
Theological Seminary
Lawrence and Charlotte Hoover
Professor of Pastoral Care (2000)
B.Th., Toronto Baptist Seminary;
M.A.C.S., Calvin College; M.A., Ph.D.,
Michigan State University
Before coming to Southern,
Dr. Johnson taught courses at
Northwestern College in Minnesota for nine years.
He has contributed numerous articles in the field of
Christian psychology. He is an associate editor of the
Journal of Psychology and Theology, and in 1998 he was
editor for a special issue of the Journal of Psychology
and Christianity, entitled “Psychology within the
Christian Tradition.” He authored articles for the Baker
Encyclopedia of Psychology and Counseling and has
co-edited and contributed to Christianity and Psychology:
Five Views and God Under Fire: Modern Scholarship
Reinvents God. He also wrote Foundations for Soul Care:
A Christian Psychology Proposal.
Dr. Scott comes to Southern with over thirty years
of experience in counseling and pastoral ministry,
including eight years as associate pastor at Grace
Community Church with Pastor John MacArthur. Prior
to joining the faculty at Southern, Dr. Scott served on
the faculty of The Master’s College and Seminary. He
is a Fellow and member of the board of the National
Association of Nouthetic Counselors. He is the author
of The Exemplary Husband, From Pride to Humility:
A Biblical Perspective; Anger, Fear, and Anxiety;
and Communication and Conflict Resolution. He
co-authored The Faithful Parent: A Biblical Guide to
Raising a Family; and Counseling the Hard Cases: True
Stories Illustrating the Sufficiency of God’s Resources
in Scripture. He has also co-edited The Difficult
Counseling Cases, and contributed to other books.
page 50 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Distinguished Professors
Richard Land
Distinguished Professor of Christian
Ethics
A.B., Princeton University; Th.M., New
Orleans Baptist Seminary; D.Phil.,
University of Oxford (England)
Dr. Land is president of Southern Evangelical Seminary,
a non-denominational seminary in Charlotte, N.C. Prior
to becoming president of SES, Land served for 25 years
as the president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty
Commission, the Southern Baptist Convention’s official
entity assigned to address social, moral and ethical
concerns.
Eugene Merrill
Distinguished professor of Old
Testament Interpretation
B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Bob Jones
University; M.A. New York University;
M.Phil, Ph.D., Columbia University
Dr. Merrill has been heavily involved in international
Christian ministry in Europe, Asia and the Near East.
As a scholar, Merrill regularly contributes to leading
journals, periodicals, dictionaries, encyclopedias and
commentaries.
Russell D. Moore
Distinguished Professor of Christian
Ethics
He is the author of Tempted and Tried: Temptation and
the Triumph of Christ, Adopted for Life: The Priority of
Adoption for Christian Families and Churches, and The
Kingdom of Christ: The New Evangelical Perspective. He
is also a senior editor for Touchstone: A Journal of Mere
Christianity.
Senior Professors
James W. Cox
John B. Polhill
Robert H. Stein
Retired Professors
Gerald L. Borchert
William P. Cubine
Richard Cunningham
Joel F. Drinkard, Jr.
E. Glenn Hinson
Walter C. Jackson, III
J. Estill Jones
G. Wade Rowatt, Jr.
Paul D. Simmons
Glen H. Stassen
Edward E. Thornton
E. Frank Tupper
Visiting Professors
Daniel I. Block
Douglas K. Blount
Joel Briedenbaugh
David S. Dockery
Wayne Grudem
Paul Helm
Andreas Köstenberger
Jason Lee
Kenneth A. Mathews
David Powlison
Robert Smith
Gregory A. Thornbury
Ray Van Neste
Robert Yarbrough
B.S., University of Southern Mississippi;
M.Div., New Orleans Baptist
Theological Seminary; Ph.D., The
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Dr. Moore is president of the Ethics and Religious
Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention.
A widely-sought cultural commentator, Moore speaks
frequently to issues of theology, culture and public policy,
having been quoted or published by many of the nation’s
leading news agencies and periodicals—including The
New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post,
Chicago Tribune, USA Today, and The Associated Press.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 51
Introduction
Purpose
The primary purpose of the School of Theology is to offer
graduate theological education to train students to be
pastors, teachers, biblical counselors, and for other areas
of service to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The School of Theology seeks to provide the biblical
and theological training that is foundational for effective
ministry. Central to these educational functions is
the development of persons of Christian character,
commitment, and integrity.
Because Christian ministers encounter a wide spectrum
of issues and challenges, the School of Theology offers
an education that is both comprehensive and highly
specialized. To meet the demand for comprehensiveness,
students complete a core curriculum that will enable
them to think theologically and will equip them with
appropriate knowledge and skills. To meet the demand
for specialization, students have the opportunity to select
an area of concentrated vocational preparation.
The School of Theology seeks both to serve and to
lead the denomination of which it is a part. While closely
related to the academic and Christian communities of
the world, its chief concern is the Christian ministry of
Southern Baptist churches.
Overview of Academic Programs
Academic programs in the School of Theology consist
of three types. First, the basic professional programs
designed to equip qualified students for the practice
of ministry are the Diploma in Theology, the Master
of Arts in Theological Studies, the Master of Arts in
Biblical Counseling, the Master of Divinity degree, and
the Advanced Master of Divinity degree. Second, the
professional doctoral degree is the Doctor of Ministry.
Third, the research doctoral programs designed to qualify
advanced students for research and teaching, as well as
for other specialized leadership positions, are the Master
of Theology degree and the Doctor of Philosophy degree.
School of Theology Goals
The programs in the School of Theology are offered to
equip qualified students for the practice of effective
Christian ministry. The goal of this faculty is for every
graduate:
• To be a called disciple and minister of Jesus Christ,
serving His Kingdom
• To possess a deep and growing love for God and a
desire to bring glory to His name
• To possess an abiding love for people and the work of
Christian ministry in the context of the church
• To bear witness to the complete truthfulness of Holy
Scripture
• To maintain the historic principles of the Christian faith
and of the Baptist heritage
• To be ethically informed and to embody the moral
imperatives of the Kingdom of God
• To integrate theological understandings with human
need in the contemporary world
• To demonstrate Christian commitment, maturity,
integrity and spirituality
• To possess knowledge of the Bible and of historic and
contemporary Christian thought and practice
• To receive specialized training and skill development in
specific areas of ministry
Policies for Master’s Level
Programs
Academic Advising
Academic advising is offered for new students during
orientation. Academic advising is also available during
the year. Students may contact the Office of Student
Success.
Shepherding Groups
Shepherding groups are designed to provide students
with small group mentorship from faculty and fellowship
with other students.
Faculty members in the School of Theology serve
as faculty shepherds to provide spiritual support and
pastoral oversight for all students in the degree programs
of the School of Theology. Shepherding groups provide
opportunity for prayer, development of relationships,
encouragement, and fellowship.
Applied Ministry
Applied Ministry is a field education class which provides
an opportunity for the student to learn while engaged
in the practice of ministry. In Applied Ministry the
student serves on the field and obtains practical ministry
experience under the supervision of a qualified minister
at an eligible site. Field education is a requirement for all
students in master’s level programs.
Enrollment Requirements
Prior to taking Applied Ministry, students will need to
make plans for how they will fulfill the requirements of the
course. Full details are provided in the Applied Ministry
Handbook on the seminary’s website. Questions may be
directed to the Applied Ministry Office in the Center for
Student Success. The office can be contacted by phone
at 800-626-5525, extension 4680, or via email at am@
sbts.edu.
Securing Ministry Placements
Students needing assistance finding a Partnering Site
for Applied Ministry should contact the Applied Ministry
Office. Assistance in pursuing vocational ministry
opportunities is available in the Ministry Connections
Office.
Master’s Level Program
Descriptions and Requirements
The School of Theology offers the following master’s level
degrees:
• Master of Divinity degree with various emphases
• Advanced Master of Divinity
• Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling
• Master of Arts in Theological Studies
(for laypersons only)
• Diploma in Theology, which is a program for persons
without a baccalaureate degree and requires course
page 52 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
work that is similar to that of the Master of Divinity
degree
The programs of study vary in terms of description and
requirements. Program descriptions and requirements are
outlined on the following pages.
Note: Master of Divinity degrees are also offered in
the other master’s-level schools of the seminary. These
other Master of Divinity degrees have different goals and
requirements. For further information, consult the School
of Church Ministries, and/or the Billy Graham School of
Missions and Evangelism sections of this catalog.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 53
School of Theology Master of Divinity Core
This core is required for the Christian Ministry, Pastoral Studies, Biblical and
Theological Studies, Biblical Counseling, Worldview and Apologetics, and Biblical
Spirituality concentrations.
The Master of Divinity is the foundational graduate
degree program for ministry preparation. The program
of study is designed to give the student comprehensive
knowledge in biblical and theological studies and to
help the student develop the specific skills needed
for effective ministry. The need of today’s student for
specialized preparation in specific forms of ministry is met
through curricular options. The School of Theology also
offers the following concentrations: Christian Ministry,
Pastoral Studies, Biblical and Theological Studies, Biblical
Counseling, and Worldview and Apologetics.
Learning Outcomes
Remedial/Pre-requisite Courses
20400Elementary Hebrew
22400Elementary Greek
31980 Written Communication (if required)
42490Cooperative Program
Worldview and Culture (6 hours)
28500 Introduction to Christian Philosophy 29250 Survey of Christian Ethics (3)
(3)
(2)
(2)
Scripture and Interpretation (21 hours)
20200 Introduction to the Old Testament I 20220 Introduction to the Old Testament II 20440Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis 22100Biblical Hermeneutics
22200 Introduction to the New Testament I 22220 Introduction to the New Testament II 22440Greek Syntax and Exegesis
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
Theology and Tradition (15 hours)
25100 Introduction to Church History I 25120 Introduction to Church History II 27060 Systematic Theology I 27070 Systematic Theology II 27080 Systematic Theology III 3
3
3
3
3
• Students will be able to demonstrate a growing,
Christlike character and a sense of God’s calling
to ministry.
• Students will be able to understand the Christian
worldview and have a global vision for fulfilling the
Great Commission.
• Students will be able to demonstrate significant
knowledge of the Bible, interpret Scripture’s original
meaning, and apply Scripture to contemporary
situations.
• Students will be able to integrate systematic and
historical theology into a larger biblical framework.
• Students will be able to display a biblical vision for
ministry and lead with humble authority.
• Students will be able to preach/teach Scripture clearly
and passionately so as to engage the mind and move
the heart.
3
3
Ministry and Proclamation (22 hours)
30000Christian Preaching13
30020Preaching Practicum23
32100Theology Evangelism
3
32960Introduction to Missiology
3
34300Introduction to Biblical Counseling33
35040Introduction to Family Ministry
3
40150 Personal Spiritual Disciplines 2
44910 Applied Ministry: Theology
2
Total Theology M.Div. Core Hours64
• Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
• Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
• Written Communication (if required) +2
See Written Communication Requirement in Academic Section.
1
Christian Preaching (30000) is reserved for men. Women will substitute The Ministry of Teaching (45400).
2
Preaching Practicum (30020) is reserved for men. Women will substitute courses 45450, 46515, or 48100.
3
34300 Introduction to Biblical Counseling is not required in the M.Div. with a Concentration in Worldview
and Apologetics program.
page 54 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Christian Ministry
The Christian Ministry concentration is designed for
those called to ministry in the local church or Christian
organizations. This option allows for maximum flexibility
with elective choices, while ensuring that basic courses
of biblical, theological, and ministry studies are included.
Students who would benefit from a broader-based set
of curricular options will appreciate the opportunity
for greater selection of free electives and of courses in
several areas that will best meet their needs.
Exception to the M.Div. Core: 28500 Introduction to
Christian Philosophy, 34300 Introduction to Biblical
Counseling, and 35040 Introduction to Family Ministry
are not required.
26100 History of the Baptists
3
40301Pastoral Ministry13
Free Electives27
Christian Ministry Studies33
Theology M.Div. Core55
Vocational Objectives
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• North American Missions
• International Missions
• Biblical and theological studies
• Campus/college ministry
• Evangelism
• Doctoral studies
• Teaching in University or Seminary
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Christian Ministry Requirements88
• Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
• Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
Pastoral Ministry (40301) is reserved for men. Women will substitute any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
1
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Pastoral Studies
The Pastoral Studies concentration is primarily designed
to prepare men who are called to serve in the office
of pastor in local congregations. A balance of biblical,
theological, and ministry courses makes this a broad
program of pastoral training, allowing for exposure to
a range of knowledge and skills needed for effective
ministry in the local church.
Vocational Objectives
26100History of the Baptists
3
36450Ministry/Evangelism or
36500Church Action in the Community or
36550Introduction to Church Revitalization
3
40301Pastoral Ministry13
Pastoral Studies24
Theology M.Div. Core64
Restricted Electives (6 hours)
Scripture and Interpretation Elective3
Theology and Tradition elective or
Worldview and Culture elective3
Free Electives 9
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• North American missions
• International missions
• Biblical and theological studies
• Campus/college ministry
• Evangelism
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Pastoral Studies Requirements88
•Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
•Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
•Written Communication (if required)
+2
Pastoral Ministry (40301) is reserved for men. Women will substitute any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
1
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 55
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Biblical
and Theological Studies
The Biblical and Theological Studies concentration is
designed to focus on the study of scripture and theology.
Through this concentration, students engage in intensive
biblical language study and explore theology, philosophy,
and history in depth. Students with this concentration
will likely take Hebrew and Greek simultaneously in
varying degrees of intensity. Since students in this
concentration do not have room for the Old and New
Testament Introduction classes within the required
program of studies, they are strongly advised to attend
the introductory lectures (i.e. of 20200, 20220, 22200,
and 22220) to increase their general knowledge of the
Scriptures. Permission of the instructor is required.
Exception to the M.Div. Core: 20200 Introduction to
the Old Testament I, 20220 Introduction to the Old
Testament II, 22200 Introduction to the New Testament I,
and 22220 Introduction to the New Testament II are not
required.
Vocational Objectives
27800Theology of the Old Testament
3
27820Theology of the New Testament
3
Hebrew Exegesis elective3
Hebrew Exegesis elective3
Greek Exegesis elective3
Greek Exegesis elective3
OT Elective in Language Exegesis, Backgrounds,
Textual Criticism3
NT Elective in Language Exegesis, Backgrounds,
Textual Criticism3
26100History of the Baptists
3
Restricted Electives (9 hours)
Restricted electives from Theology and Tradition, and
Worldview and Culture Divisions, with 3 hours minimum
required from each division9
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• North American Missions
• International Missions
• Biblical and theological studies
• Campus/college ministry
• Evangelism
• Doctoral studies
• Teaching in University or Seminary
Biblical and Theological Studies36
Theology M.Div. Core Hours152
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Biblical and Theological Studies Requirements88
• Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
• Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
M.Div. Core courses 20200, 20220, 22200, and 22220 are not required.
1
page 56 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Biblical Counseling
The Biblical Counseling concentration offers rigorous
and specialized training to prepare men and women for
the ministry of biblical counseling. This concentration
is designed for pastors and other church leaders who
seek to do a significant amount of counseling from the
framework of a biblical counseling model. The degree
will be rich with biblical and theological studies, along
with practical pastoral training. The degree offers a firm
foundation of theoretical and practical preparation for
counseling itself, with a strategic array of classes in the
most pressing issues of biblical church-based counseling.
Vocational Objectives
34305Biblical and Theological Foundations for
Counseling
3
34310Essential Qualities of the Biblical Counselor or
34320Christian Theories of the Person
3
34330Typical Problems in Biblical Counseling
3
34325The Care of Souls in the Congregation
3
35100 Marriage and Family Counseling
3
35530Reformational Counseling Training I or
35585Counseling Observations and Practicum
3
35540Reformational Counseling Training II or
35590Counseling Internships
3
40301Pastoral Ministry13
Biblical Counseling Studies24
Theology M.Div. Core64
• Biblical counseling
• Marriage and family ministry
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• North American missions
• International missions
• Campus/Collegiate ministry
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Biblical Counseling Requirements88
• Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
• Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
Pastoral Ministry (40301) is reserved for men. Women will substitute any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
1
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Biblical Spirituality
The biblical spirituality emphasis is designed for those
called to minister in the local church or for students
who wish to pursue advanced theological studies. This
emphasis provides courses in biblical, historical, practical,
and theological spirituality.
Vocational Objectives
(Choose at least six classes from the list below.)
40160Great Christian Lives
40151Personal Spiritual DIsciplines II: Prayer and Disciple-making
25230Early Christian Spirituality
40170The Psalms & Christian Spirituality
40175Medieval and Reformation Spirituality
40155Congregational Spiritual Disciplines
40165Evangelical and Baptist Spirituality
27370The Doctrine of the Trinity
3
Biblical Spirituality Studies18
Free Electives6
Theology M.Div. Core64
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
•Pastorate
•Preaching
•North American Missions
•International Missions
•Discipleship
•Biblical and Theological Studies
•Doctoral Studies
•Teaching in University or Seminary
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Biblical Spirituality Studies Requirements 88
• Elementary Hebrew (if required) +3
• Elementary Greek (if required) +3
• Written Communication (if required) +3
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 57
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Worldview and Apologetics
The Worldview and Apologetics concentration is
designed to give concentrated focus on worldview and
apologetics studies in order to prepare ministers to
engage culture with a compelling Christian understanding
of the world. Through this concentration, students gain
an understanding of how to interpret culture and to apply
a Christian worldview to issues such as those related to
science, philosophy, visual arts, film, critical thinking, law
and government, and ethics.
Exception to the M.Div. Core: 34300 Introduction to
Biblical Counseling is not required.
Vocational Objectives
28700Christian Apologetics in Contemporary
Ministry
3
40301Pastoral Ministry13
Worldview/Apologetics Distinctives (21 hours)
(Composed of 18 hours of Restricted Electives in
Worldview and Culture and 3 hours of Free Elective)
Ethics (Choose 3 hours)
29300Biblical Ethics
29477Studies in Ethics
29550Christian Discipleship in Secular Society
29560The Black Church and Social Justice
29580Christian Ethics and the Environment
29600Christian Ethics and Biomedical Issues
29720Christian Ethical Perspectives on War
and Peace
29850Christian Ethics and the Family
29860Christian Ethics and Human Sexuality
Restricted Electives in Worldview and Culture
(Choose 9 hours of any Worldview and Culture Electives)
History and Philosophy of Religion (Choose 6 hours)
28510 History of Philosophy I: Classical and Medieval3
28520History of Philosophy II: Modern and
Postmodern
3
28550Christian Philosophical-Worldview Analysis 3
28577Studies in Philosophy
3
28600Faith, Reason, and Authority
3
28660God and the Philosophers
3
28677Studies in Apologetics
3
28720The Problem of Evil
3
28970 Critical Thinking and the Art of Argumentation3
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• North American Missions
• International Missions
• Biblical and theological studies
• Campus/college ministry
• Evangelism
• Doctoral studies
• Teaching in University or Seminary
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
Free Elective 3
Worldview and Apologetics Studies27
Theology M.Div. Core Hours261
Total Master of Divinity with a Concentration in
Worldview and Apologetics Requirements88
• Elementary Hebrew (if required)
+3
• Elementary Greek (if required)
+3
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
Pastoral Ministry (40301) is reserved for men. Women will substitute any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
M.Div. Core course 34300 Introduction to Biblical Counseling is not required.
1
2
page 58 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Advanced Master of Divinity
The Advanced Master of Divinity is an accelerated
professional degree program for students who have a
baccalaureate or Master of Arts degree in religion or
biblical studies and who have at least a 3.3 college grade
point average. Applicants must also have completed at
least 6 hours at the introductory level in Old Testament
Survey, New Testament Survey, Church History, and
Systematic Theology (or 3 hours at the introductory
level plus 3 hours at an advanced level in each of these
subjects). In each of the above subjects, students must
not only have the minimum of 6 hours, but their course
work must have covered the full scope of the discipline,
i.e., course work that covers the whole Old Testament
from Genesis to Malachi, the whole of the New Testament,
Church History from the 1st to the 21st century and
Introduction to Theology that covers Bibliology through
Eschatology. Only courses credited with a “B” or higher
will be accepted for these requirements, and applicants
who have not completed these hours will not be admitted
to the Advanced M.Div. program. Applicants must
also submit an acceptable 12-20 page undergraduate
research paper evidencing their research and writing
ability in some area of biblical or theological studies.
Students should also have completed 3 hours each in
ethics, philosophy, hermeneutics, preaching, elementary
Remedial/Pre-requisite Courses
31980Written Communication (if required)u(2)
42490Cooperative Program
(2)
Scripture and Interpretation (18 hours)
20440Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis
3
22440Greek Syntax and Exegesis
3
27800Theology of the Old Testament 3
27820Theology of the New Testament
3
Hebrew Exegesis elective3
Greek Exegesis elective3
Theology and Tradition (15 hours)
25140Advanced Church History
3
26100History of the Baptists
3
27050Advanced Introduction to Christian Theology 3
Theology and Tradition electives6
Worldview and Culture (9 hours)
Philosophy elective3
Ethics elective3
Worldview and Culture elective3
Hebrew, and elementary Greek, but if not, they may
complete them as prerequisites while enrolled in the Adv.
M.Div. program. Only courses with a “B” or higher will be
accepted for these requirements.
The program is designed to allow a student to acquire
a comprehensive knowledge of biblical and theological
studies and to gain specific ministry skills as is expected
at the Master of Divinity level. In addition, the Advanced
Master of Divinity program is designed to develop
critical thinking and research skills, and in one of its
two concentrations, it offers the opportunity for more
in-depth study through the writing of a 40-60 page thesis.
In the non-thesis concentration the student will take an
additional elective course in the place of writing a thesis.
The curriculum for the Advanced Master of Divinity
combines the cohesiveness of a core of required courses
with the flexibility of elective choices.
Vocational Objectives
• Pastorate
• Preaching
• Biblical and theological studies
• Doctoral studies
• Teaching in University or Seminary
Ministry and Proclamation (24 hours)
32100Theology and Practice Evangelism
3
32960Introduction to Missiology
3
34300Introduction to Biblical Counseling
3
35040Introduction to Family Ministry
3
40150Personal Spiritual Disciplines
2
40301Pastoral Ministry13
44560Supervised Research Experience22
44910Applied Ministry: Theology
2
Preaching elective33
Research and Elective Studies (13-14 hours)
40375Advanced M. Div. Thesis Writing
2
or free elective43
81020Graduate Research Seminar
2
Free electives9
Total Advanced Master of Divinity Requirements
Thesis Concentration79
Non-thesis Concentration80
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
uSee Written Communication Requirement in Academic Section.
1
Pastoral Ministry (40301) is reserved for men. Women will substitute any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
2
The two-hour Supervised Research Experience is to be satisfied through supervised research at SBTS or another
institution, whether at home or abroad.
3
If a student takes Christian Preaching (30000) because of an entrance deficiency, then that student must take Preaching
Practicum (30020) to fulfill the preaching elective requirement. Christian Preaching (30000) is reserved for men. Women
will substitute The Ministry of Teaching (45400). Preaching Practicum (30020) is reserved for men. Women will substitute
any Women’s Ministry course 48XXX.
4
A two-track Adv. M.Div. option is offered: 1) Track One is a thesis track. The student will take Advanced M.Div. Thesis
Writing (40375), and write a 40-60 page thesis. 2) Track Two is a non-thesis track. The student will take a three-hour
elective in place of the two-hour Thesis Writing Course.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 59
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies: Seminary Track
This program is designed for high school graduates
who have already recognized their call to seminary for
advanced study. Students who enter the Seminary Track
can potentially earn both an undergraduate degree from
Boyce College and the Master of Divinity from Southern
Seminary in as little as five years.
See the Boyce College web site for more information:
http://www.boycecollege.com/academics/degreeprograms/seminary-track/
General Studies39
CM 101Introduction to Computers
3
EN 101English Composition I
3
EN 102English Composition II
3
HS 105Ancient Near Eastern History
3
HU 421Great Books Seminar I
3
HU 422Great Books Seminar II
3
MA --- Math Elective
3
PH 103Introduction to Philosophy
3
PH 108Worldview Analysis
3
PH 311Introduction to Ethics
3
PH 321Religion in the Public Square
3
PS 101Introduction to Psychology
3
PS 221Marriage and the Family
3
Biblical and Theological Studies54
BL 342History of the Bible
3
LN 231Greek I
3
LN 232Greek II
3
LN 321Hebrew I
3
LN 322Hebrew II
3
20200Introduction to the Old Testament I 3*
20220Introduction to the Old Testament II 3*
22100Biblical Hermeneutics 3*
22200Introduction to the New Testament I 3*
22220Introduction to the New Testament II 3*
25100Introduction to Church History I 3*
25120Introduction to Church History II 3*
26100History of the Baptists 3*
27060Systematic Theology I 3*
27070Systematic Theology II 3*
27080Systematic Theology III 3*
20440Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis 3*
22440Greek Syntax and Exegesis 3*
Ministry Studies21
CN 101Introduction to Biblical Counseling
3
Male Students
PR 205Preaching I
3
PR 206Preaching II
3
Female Students
SP 105Introduction to Pubic Speaking
3
SP 106Advanced Public Speaking
3
32960Introduction to Missiology 3*
32100Theology and Practice of Evangelism 3*
35040Leadership and Family Ministry 3*
40301Pastoral Ministry (men) 3*
Women. Substitute WS 211, 331, 340, 417;
CE 238, 348, 363; or, a SBTS course from
48200-48900
General Electives6
Total Degree Hours120
ADDITIONAL MASTERS LEVEL COURSES
(to complete M.Div. requirements)
40150Personal Spiritual Disciplines
44910Applied Ministry: Theology (men) -------Free Electives
2
2
24
Prerequisite:
CP 100Cooperative Program
2
*Indicates courses earned in-class for masters credit and
by subsequent credit-by-examination testing for undergraduate credit
Note: Admission to the concurrent Master of Divinity from Southern Seminary is not guaranteed by entrance into Boyce
College, and is based on an academic and character evaluation and the end of the first year of undergraduate study.
page 60 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling
The Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling is designed to
prepare students for a ministry of biblical counseling to
individuals, couples, and families in a congregational,
denominational agency, counseling center, or missions
setting. The degree is designed for non-pastoral staff
members and other church leaders who seek to do a
significant amount of counseling from the framework of
a biblical counseling model. The degree blends academic
and classroom preparation with practical training in a
ministry setting. Students desiring to pursue D.Min. or
Ph.D. studies should seek entry into the M.Div. with a
Concentration in Biblical Counseling degree.
Vocational Objectives
Remedial/Pre-requisite Courses
31980Written Communication (if required)u(2)
42490Cooperative Program
(2)
Biblical Counseling (21 hours)
34300Introduction to Biblical Counseling
3
34305Biblical and Theological Foundations
for Counseling
3
34310Essential Qualities of the Biblical Counselor 3
34330Typical Problems in Biblical Counseling 3
35100Marriage and Family Counseling
3
35530Reformational Counseling Training I or
35585Counseling Observations and Practicum
3
35540Reformational Counseling Training II or
35590Counseling Internships
3
Total Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling
Requirements51
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
Biblical/Theological Studies (30 hours)
20200Introduction to the Old Testament I
20220Introduction to the Old Testament II
22100Biblical Hermeneutics
22200Introduction to the New Testament I
22220Introduction to the New Testament II
27060Systematic Theology I
27070Systematic Theology II
27080Systematic Theology III
32100Theology and Practice of Evangelism
35040Introduction to Family Ministry
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
• Biblical Counseling
• Marriage and Family Ministry
Learning Outcomes
• Students will be able to demonstrate a growing,
Christlike character and a sense of God’s calling to
ministry.
• Students will be able to understand the Christian
worldview and have a global vision for fulfilling the
Great Commission.
• Students will be able to demonstrate significant
knowledge of the Bible, interpret Scripture’s original
meaning, and apply Scripture to contemporary
situations.
• Students will be able to integrate systematic and
historical theology into a larger biblical framework.
• Students will be able to demonstrate skill in the practice
of biblical counseling.
uSee Written Communication Requirement in Academic Section.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 61
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
The Master of Arts in Theological Studies is designed
to offer ministry training for those persons who are
not preparing for a professional ministry vocation. The
purpose of this degree is to provide biblical, theological,
historical, and practical training for laypersons who desire
to be better equipped to do ministry in the local church.
Vocational Objectives
Remedial/Pre-requisite Courses
31980Written Communication (if required)u(2)
42490Cooperative Program
(2)
Worldview and Culture (9 hours)
28500Introduction to Christian Philosophy
3
29250Survey of Christian Ethics
3
Worldview and Culture elective3
Scripture and Interpretation (15 hours)
20200Introduction to the Old Testament I
20220Introduction to the Old Testament II
22100Biblical Hermeneutics
22200Introduction to the New Testament I
22220Introduction to the New Testament II
3
3
3
3
3
Theology and Tradition (15 hours)
25100Introduction to Church History I
25120Introduction to Church History II
27060Systematic Theology I
27070Systematic Theology II
27080Systematic Theology III
3
3
3
3
3
• For laypersons only
Learning Outcomes
• Students will be able to understand the Christian
worldview and have a global vision for fulfilling the
Great Commission.
• Students will be able to demonstrate significant
knowledge of the Bible, interpret Scripture’s original
meaning, and apply Scripture to contemporary
situations.
• Students will be able to integrate systematic and
historical theology into a larger biblical framework.
Ministry and Proclamation (6 hours)
32100Theology and Practice of Evangelism
32960Introduction to Missiology
3
3
Free elective 3
Total Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Requirements48
• Written Communication (if required)
+2
uSee Written Communication Requirement in Academic Section.
page 62 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Diploma Program
Diploma in Theology
A Diploma in Theology program is offered for students
who cannot enroll in a master’s degree program because
they do not have a baccalaureate degree. Candidates
must be at least 30 years of age to be admitted to the
Diploma in Theology program.
Up to twelve semester hours of transfer credit can be
applied to the Diploma in Theology program. Those credit
hours must have been taken through Seminary Extension
(a ministry education system of the six theological
seminaries of the Southern Baptist Convention) or
Boyce College. See Transfer of Credit Policy in Academic
Section. To graduate with a Diploma in Theology, the
student must complete the requirements for any one
of the Master of Divinity curricular concentrations with
the exception of the language requirement of Hebrew
and Greek, and must earn a minimum of 85 credit hours.
Diploma students may request admittance to a master’s
program in accordance with the Transfer of Degree
Program policy (See section in Academic Information).
Learning Outcomes
• Students will be able to demonstrate a growing,
Christlike character and a sense of God’s calling to
ministry.
• Students will be able to understand the Christian
worldview and have a global vision for fulfilling the
Great Commission.
• Students will be able to demonstrate significant
knowledge of the Bible, interpret Scripture’s original
meaning, and apply Scripture to contemporary
situations.
• Students will be able to integrate systematic and
historical theology into a larger biblical framework.
• Students will be able to display a biblical vision for
ministry and lead with humble authority.
• Students will be able to preach/teach Scripture clearly
and passionately so as to engage the mind and move
the heart.
Learning Outcomes
Diploma in Theological Studies
A Diploma in Theological Studies program is offered
for students who cannot enroll in a master’s degree
program because they do not have a baccalaureate
degree. Candidates must be at least 30 years of age to be
admitted to the Diploma in Theological Studies program.
To graduate with a Diploma in Theological Studies, the
student must complete the requirements for the Master
of Arts in Theological Studies. Diploma students may
request admittance to a master’s program in accordance
with the Transfer of Degree Program policy (See section
in Academic Information).
• Students will be able to understand the Christian
worldview and have a global vision for fulfilling the
Great Commission.
• Students will be able to demonstrate significant
knowledge of the Bible, interpret Scripture’s original
meaning, and apply Scripture to contemporary
situations.
• Students will be able to integrate systematic and
historical theology into a larger biblical framework.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 63
Policies for Doctor of
Ministry Programs
Overview of Doctor of Ministry
Programs
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree is an advanced
professional doctorate degree in ministry. The purpose
of this program of study is to equip persons who are
committed to a Christian vocation for a high level of
excellence in the practice of ministry.
The distinctive features of the Doctor of Ministry
degree program include:
•Participation in academic seminars
•Practical application of classroom learning to the
student’s ministry setting
•A written research project that is related to the student’s
ministry setting
•An oral defense of the written project
In the School of Theology, the degree is offered in four
distinct areas:
• Expository Preaching
• Biblical Counseling
• Biblical Spirituality
• Applied Theology
Registration
Students accepted into the Doctor of Ministry program
must register for their first seminar no later than one year
after acceptance to the program.
After initial registration, a student is expected to
register every term for seminars and every semester for
Applied Ministry Experience or Ministry Research Project
writing.
Unforeseen circumstances do at times require that
students temporarily halt their studies. Any interruptions
in study, however, are strongly discouraged.
Students who must take time off from the program of
study must request permission for “Interrupted Status”
from the Director of Professional Doctoral Studies at
least one month prior to the first day of classes in the
semester. Students are allowed a maximum of two
semesters of Interrupted Status.
Length of Time Allowed
Students in the program are expected to pursue their
degree concurrently with full-time vocational involvement
in ministry. Students should expect to complete the
program within three years. If a student takes longer
than three years to complete the program, a continuation
fee will be charged each semester beyond the initial
six semesters (3 years). Under no circumstances shall a
student extend the time of completion beyond six years
(note that interrupted status will count against the six
year maximum).
Minimum Grade Point
For each component of the program, a student must
receive a minimum grade of “B–” (2.7 on a 4.0 scale). If a
student receives a grade that is lower than a “B–” on any
individual component, that component must be repeated.
Furthermore, that student is placed on probation. If a
student receives two successive grades that are lower
than a “B–” the student will be terminated from the
program.
Attendance
Because the foundational seminars are accelerated,
attendance is required at every session for the entire
duration of these seminars. Absence from any portion of
any foundational seminar will necessitate retaking that
seminar. Class participation will affect the student’s final
grade.
Assignments
The accelerated plan for the foundational seminars
mandates that all assignments be completed on time,
including reading and book critiques that are to be done
before the seminar and the papers that are to be done
after the seminar. Faculty will work with students to
maintain a submission schedule for all assignments.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will be able to demonstrate an advanced
understanding and integration of ministry into various
theological disciplines.
• Students will be able to demonstrate applied knowledge
& skills pertinent to his/her vocational ministry.
• Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to use
standard research tools and methods in the chosen field
of study.
• Students will be able to research, plan, and implement
a project relevant to his/her vocational ministry and to
communicate the plan and its results effectively.
• Students will be able to contribute to the understanding
and practice of ministry through the completion of
a written project report suitable for inclusion in the
seminary library.
Doctor of Ministry Program
Descriptions and Requirements
Doctor of Ministry–
Expository Preaching
The Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration in
Expository Preaching is designed to equip pastors and
other church leaders in the skills of sermon preparation
and public exposition of Scripture. This program of study
will meet the needs of those persons who want to engage
in the classical disciplines of biblical interpretation,
theological reflection, and sermon preparation. It is a
non-resident degree program that is intended for ministry
professionals who desire further education but who
simultaneously wish to remain on the field of service
where God has placed them.
Curriculum Plan
The program of study consists of four areas:
• Foundational seminars....................................................16 hours
• Applied ministry experience........................................... 8 hours
• Project methodology......................................................... 2 hours
• Ministry research project.................................................. 6 hours
Total D.Min. credit hours................................................32 hours
Foundational Seminars
Four on-campus foundational seminars, for a total of 16
page 64 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
credit hours, are required:
• 80311 Theological, Historical, and Practical Issues
in Expository Preaching................................................................. 4
• 80312 Expository Preaching and the
Old Testament ................................................................................... 4
• 80313 Expository Preaching and the
New Testament.................................................................................. 4
• 80314 Methods and Models of
Expository Preaching...................................................................... 4
These seminars are not taken concurrently and may
be taken in one of two ways. A student can enroll in the
seminars when they are offered on the Louisville campus.
Each seminar meets for four days during a winter or
summer term. A student also can enroll in the seminars
when they are offered at selected extension sites.
Prior to the time the seminar meets, students are
required to complete a significant amount of work (such
as reading a minimum of 2500 pages plus completing
written assignments).
Applied Ministry Experience
Because this degree is a professional degree, it is
expected that students will incorporate classroom
material into their ministry setting. Through Applied
Ministry Experience, students can develop higher
competence and can increase skills in the performance of
ministry. Students are to complete the following courses,
each of which corresponds to a specific foundational
seminar:
• 80321 Applied Ministry Experience I........................................ 2
• 80322 Applied Ministry Experience II....................................... 2
• 80323 Applied Ministry Experience III...................................... 2
• 80324 Applied Ministry Experience IV..................................... 2
Each course requires one or more projects or
assignments related directly to course material covered
in the foundational seminar that accompanies it. The
projects accomplish two purposes:
• to reinforce, expand, and provide a practical experience
relative to the seminar content
• to assist the student in preparing for the research
project that will culminate the student’s degree program
Project Methodology
Students are required to complete one project
methodology course for a total of 2 credit hours:
• 80600 Project Methodology......................................................... 1
Course 80600 is attached to the second foundational
seminar.
• 80610 Intro to Doctoral Research and Writing.................... 1
Ministry Research Project
The ministry research project (course 80700) is the
culmination of the program of study. Through a written
report of 100-125 (+/–10%) pages, the student has
the opportunity to apply professional knowledge and
documented research into the context of ministry. The
entire project is supervised by a committee comprised
of the faculty supervisor and the professor who taught
course 80600. Prior to beginning the ministry research
project, the student must secure approval of a proposal.
To secure approval, the student must submit a project
prospectus to the two-person committee mentioned
above. Once this committee approves the prospectus, the
Director of Professional Doctoral Studies will recommend
the prospectus to the Associate Vice President for
Doctoral Studies for recommendation to the faculty for
final approval. Once the prospectus is approved, the
student engages in simultaneous research and practice
to conduct the project. The results of the project are
compiled in written form per specific guidelines. After
the project paper has been written, the student must
successfully defend the project in an oral exam before
a committee of two persons. This committee includes
the faculty supervisor, the professor of the project
methodology course, or a second professor selected by
the Director of Professional Doctoral Studies.
Research Thesis
The research thesis (course 80720) is an option for
Professional Doctoral students with exceptional
research and writing skills. This option differs from the
ministry project in that it is a 125-150 page work driven
by literary research towards the development and
validation of a thesis statement applied to the broader
church rather than a practical project geared towards
a local ministry setting. Permission must be granted to
present a research thesis in place of a ministry research
project by submitting the following items: a Research
Thesis Request Form; a 10-15 page exemplary research
paper; and a 1 page abstract that includes the title,
thesis statement, and general direction of the work. The
Office of Professional Doctoral Studies and the potential
supervisor will review these documents and determine
whether the thesis request will be approved or denied.
If approved, the student will write a thesis proposal in
course 80600 and submit it to the Professional Doctoral
Office and the supervisor for approval. Once these parties
have accepted the proposal, the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies will recommend it to the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies for recommendation to
the faculty for approval. The student then engages in
research and writing to complete the thesis. Upon its
completion, the student will defend the thesis before
a committee of the faculty supervisor and a second
professor approved by the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies.
Communities of Learning
Students are part of a community of learning that helps
to foster collegiality and facilitate an open and effective
learning atmosphere.
Faculty Supervision
Students receive program advising from the Office
of Professional Doctoral Studies throughout the
entire program of study. Upon completion of Project
Methodology (80600), the student is assigned to a faculty
supervisor. The supervisor is responsible for guiding the
student’s progress through the Ministry Research Project.
Doctor of Ministry–
Biblical Counseling
The Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration
in Biblical Counseling is designed to equip ministry
professionals for leadership in ministering and counseling
from a biblical foundation. Specifically, the degree is
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 65
designed for congregational ministers and others who
serve in counseling roles. The Doctor of Ministry is a nonresident degree program that is intended for ministry
professionals who desire further training but whose
professional responsibilities do not allow them to suspend
full-time employment to relocate in order to pursue an
education.
Curriculum Plan
The program of study consists of four areas:
•Foundational seminars: 16 hours
•Applied ministry experience: 8 hours
•Project methodology: 2 hours
•Ministry research project: 6 hours
Total D.Min. credit hours: 32
Foundational Seminars
Four on-campus foundational seminars, for a total of 16
credit hours, are required:
• 80551 Introduction to Biblical Counseling............................. 4
• 80552 Methodology of Biblical Counseling........................... 4
• 80553 Problems and Procedures of Biblical Counseling.4
• 80554 Marriage and Family Counseling.................................. 4
These seminars are not taken concurrently and may
be taken in one of two ways. A student can enroll in the
seminars when they are offered on the Louisville campus.
Each seminar meets for four days during a winter or
summer term. A student also can enroll in the seminars
when they are offered at selected extension sites.
Prior to the time the seminar meets, students are
required to complete a significant amount of work (such
as reading a minimum of 2500 pages plus completing
written assignments).
Applied Ministry Experience
Because this degree is a professional degree, it is
expected that students will incorporate classroom
material into their ministry setting. Through Applied
Ministry Experience, students can develop higher
competence and can increase skills in the performance of
ministry. Students are to complete the following courses,
each of which corresponds to a specific foundational
seminar:
• 80591 Applied Ministry Experience I........................................ 2
• 80592 Applied Ministry Experience II....................................... 2
• 80593 Applied Ministry Experience III...................................... 2
• 80594 Applied Ministry Experience IV..................................... 2
Each course requires one or more projects or
assignments related directly to course material covered
in the foundational seminar that accompanies it. The
projects accomplish two purposes:
•To reinforce, expand, and provide a practical experience
relative to the seminar content
•To assist the student in preparing for the research
project that will culminate the student’s degree program
Project Methodology
Students are required to complete one project
methodology course for a total of 2 credit hours:
• 80600 Project Methodology......................................................... 1
Course 80600 is attached to the third foundational
seminar.
• 80610 Intro to Doctoral Research and Writing.................... 1
Ministry Research Project
The ministry research project (course 80700) is the
culmination of the program of study. Through a written
report of 100-125 (+/–10%) pages, the student has
the opportunity to apply professional knowledge and
documented research into the context of ministry. The
entire project is supervised by a committee comprised
of the faculty supervisor and the professor who taught
course 80600. Prior to beginning the ministry research
project, the student must secure approval of a proposal.
To secure approval, the student must submit a project
prospectus to the two-person committee mentioned
above. Once this committee approves the prospectus, the
Director of Professional Doctoral Studies will recommend
the prospectus to the Associate Vice President for
Doctoral Studies for recommendation to the faculty for
final approval. Once the prospectus is approved, the
student engages in simultaneous research and practice
to conduct the project. The results of the project are
compiled in written form per specific guidelines. After
the project paper has been written, the student must
successfully defend the project in an oral exam before
a committee of two persons. This committee includes
the faculty supervisor, and the professor of the project
methodology course, or a second professor selected by
the Director of Professional Doctoral Studies.
Research Thesis
The research thesis (course 80720) is an option for
Professional Doctoral students with exceptional
research and writing skills. This option differs from the
ministry project in that it is a 125-150 page work driven
by literary research towards the development and
validation of a thesis statement applied to the broader
church rather than a practical project geared towards
a local ministry setting. Permission must be granted to
present a research thesis in place of a ministry research
project by submitting the following items: a Research
Thesis Request Form; a 10-15 page exemplary research
paper; and a 1 page abstract that includes the title,
thesis statement, and general direction of the work. The
Office of Professional Doctoral Studies and the potential
supervisor will review these documents and determine
whether the thesis request will be approved or denied.
If approved, the student will write a thesis proposal in
course 80600 and submit it to the Professional Doctoral
Office and the supervisor for approval. Once these parties
have accepted the proposal, the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies will recommend it to the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies for recommendation to
the faculty for approval. The student then engages in
research and writing to complete the thesis. Upon its
completion, the student will defend the thesis before
a committee of the faculty supervisor and a second
professor approved by the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies.
Communities of Learning
Students are part of a community of learning that helps
to foster collegiality and facilitate an open and effective
learning atmosphere.
Faculty Supervision
page 66 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Students receive program advising from the Office
of Professional Doctoral Studies throughout the
entire program of study. Upon completion of Project
Methodology (80600), the student is assigned to a faculty
supervisor. The supervisor is responsible for guiding the
student’s progress through the Ministry Research Project.
in the foundational seminar that accompanies it. The
projects accomplish two purposes:
• to reinforce, expand, and provide a practical experience
relative to the seminar content
• to assist the student in preparing for the research
project that will culminate the student’s degree program
Doctor of Ministry–
Biblical Spirituality
Project Methodology
The Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration in
Biblical Spirituality is designed to equip pastors and
other church leaders in the theology and practice of
biblical spirituality. The program of study emphasizes
biblical spirituality in both its personal and interpersonal
expressions, and examines this from both an historical
and contemporary perspective. The degree is a nonresident program for Christian leaders interested in
doctoral-level education without becoming full-time
students on campus, and who expect to apply their
education primarily in field ministry rather than an
academic environment.
Curriculum Plan
The program of study consists of four areas:
• Foundational seminars: 16 hours
• Applied ministry experience: 8 hours
• Project methodology: 2 hours
• Ministry research project: 6 hours
Total D.Min. credit hours: 32
Foundational Seminars
Four on-campus foundational seminars, for a total of 16
credit hours, are required:
• 80911 Introduction to Biblical Spirituality.............................. 4
• 80912 Christian Classics................................................................. 4
• 80913 Biblical Spirituality in the Local Church..................... 4
• 80914 Spiritual Awakening and Revival.................................. 4
These seminars are not taken concurrently and may
be taken in one of two ways. A student can enroll in the
seminars when they are offered on the Louisville campus.
Each seminar meets for four days during a winter or
summer term. Also, a student can enroll in the seminars
offered at selected extension sites.
Prior to the time the seminar meets, students are
required to complete a significant amount of work (such
as reading a minimum of 2500 pages, plus completing
written assignments).
Applied Ministry Experience
Because this is a professional degree, students will
incorporate classroom material into their ministry setting.
Through Applied Ministry Experience, students can
develop higher competence and can increase skills in the
performance of ministry. Students complete the following
courses, each of which corresponds to a specific
foundational seminar:
• 80921 Applied Ministry Experience I........................................ 2
• 80922 Applied Ministry Experience II....................................... 2
• 80923 Applied Ministry Experience III...................................... 2
• 80924 Applied Ministry Experience IV..................................... 2
Each course requires one or more projects or
assignments related directly to course material covered
Students are required to complete one project
methodology course for a total of 2 credit hours:
• 80600 Project Methodology......................................................... 1
Course 80600 is attached to the third foundational
seminar.
• 80610 Intro to Doctoral Research and Writing.................... 1
Ministry Research Project
The ministry research project (Course 80700) is the
culmination of the program of study. Through a written
report of 100-125 (+/–10%) pages, the student has
the opportunity to apply professional knowledge and
documented research into the context of ministry. The
research project is supervised by the faculty supervisor
and the professor who taught 80600, with their prior
approval of the project prospectus. Once this committee
approves the prospectus, the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies will recommend it to the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies for recommendation to
the faculty for final approval. Then the student engages
in simultaneous research and practice to conduct the
project, with the results compiled in written form per
specific guidelines. The student must successfully
defend the project in an oral exam before a committee
of the faculty supervisor, the professor of the project
methodology course or a second professor selected by
the Director of Professional Doctoral Studies.
Research Thesis
The research thesis (course 80720) is an option for
Professional Doctoral students with exceptional
research and writing skills. This option differs from the
ministry project in that it is a 125-150 page work driven
by literary research towards the development and
validation of a thesis statement applied to the broader
church rather than a practical project geared towards
a local ministry setting. Permission must be granted to
present a research thesis in place of a ministry research
project by submitting the following items: a Research
Thesis Request Form; a 10-15 page exemplary research
paper; and a 1 page abstract that includes the title,
thesis statement, and general direction of the work. The
Office of Professional Doctoral Studies and the potential
supervisor will review these documents and determine
whether the thesis request will be approved or denied.
If approved, the student will write a thesis proposal in
course 80600 and submit it to the Professional Doctoral
Office and the supervisor for approval. Once these parties
have accepted the proposal, the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies will recommend it to the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies for recommendation to
the faculty for approval. The student then engages in
research and writing to complete the thesis. Upon its
completion, the student will defend the thesis before
a committee of the faculty supervisor and a second
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 67
professor approved by the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies.
Communities of Learning
Students are part of a community of learning that helps
to foster collegiality and facilitate an open and effective
learning atmosphere.
Faculty Supervision
Students receive program advising from the Office
of Professional Doctoral Studies throughout the
entire program of study. Upon completion of Project
Methodology (80600), the student is assigned to a faculty
supervisor. The supervisor is responsible for guiding the
student’s progress through the Ministry Research Project.
Doctor of Ministry–
Applied Theology
The Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration
in Applied Theology is designed to equip pastors and
other church leaders in the practice of theology within
the context of local church ministry. This program of
study will meet the needs of those persons who want
to engage in the classical disciplines of theology. It is
a non-resident degree program that is intended for
ministry professionals who desire further education but
who simultaneously wish to remain on the field of service
where God has placed them.
Curriculum Plan
The program of study consists of four areas:
•Foundational seminars: 16 hours
•Applied ministry experience: 8 hours
•Project methodology: 2 hours
•Ministry research project: 6 hours
Total D.Min. credit hours: 32
Foundational Seminars
Four on-campus foundational seminars, for a total of 16
credit hours, are required:
• 80471 Biblical and Systematic Theology In the
Local Church....................................................................................... 4
• 80472 Ecclesiology and the Local Church ............................ 4
• 80473 Historical Theology in the Local Church................... 4
• 80474 Practical Theology in the Local Church..................... 4
These seminars are not taken concurrently and may
be taken in one of two ways. A student can enroll in the
seminars when they are offered on the Louisville campus.
Each seminar meets for four days during a winter or
summer term. A student also can enroll in the seminars
when they are offered at selected extension sites.
Prior to the time the seminar meets, students are
required to complete a significant amount of work (such
as reading a minimum of 2500 pages plus completing
written assignments).
Applied Ministry Experience
Because this degree is a professional degree, it is
expected that students will incorporate classroom
material into their ministry setting. Through Applied
Ministry Experience, students can develop higher
competence and can increase skills in the performance of
ministry. Students are to complete the following courses,
each of which corresponds to a specific foundational
seminar:
• 80481 Applied Ministry Experience I........................................ 2
• 80482 Applied Ministry Experience II....................................... 2
• 80483 Applied Ministry Experience III...................................... 2
• 80484 Applied Ministry Experience IV..................................... 2
Each course requires one or more projects or
assignments related directly to course material covered
in the foundational seminar that accompanies it. The
projects accomplish two purposes:
• to reinforce, expand, and provide a practical experience
relative to the seminar content
• to assist the student in preparing for the research
project that will culminate the student’s degree program
Project Methodology
Students are required to complete one project
methodology course for a total of 2 credit hours:
• 80600 Project Methodology......................................................... 1
Course 80600 is attached to the third foundational
seminar.
• 80610 Intro to Doctoral Research and Writing.................... 1
Ministry Research Project
The ministry research project (course 80700) is the
culmination of the program of study. Through a written
report of 100-125 (+/–10%) pages, the student has
the opportunity to apply professional knowledge and
documented research into the context of ministry. The
entire project is supervised by a committee comprised
of the faculty supervisor and the professor who taught
course 80600. Prior to beginning the ministry research
project, the student must secure approval of a proposal.
To secure approval, the student must submit a project
prospectus to the two-person committee mentioned
above. Once this committee approves the prospectus, the
Director of Professional Doctoral Studies will recommend
the prospectus to the Associate Vice President for
Doctoral Studies for recommendation to the faculty for
final approval. Once the prospectus is approved, the
student engages in simultaneous research and practice
to conduct the project. The results of the project are
compiled in written form per specific guidelines. After
the project paper has been written, the student must
successfully defend the project in an oral exam before
a committee of two persons. This committee includes
the faculty supervisor, and the professor of the project
methodology course or a second professor selected by
the Director of Professional Doctoral Studies.
Research Thesis
The research thesis (course 80720) is an option for
Professional Doctoral students with exceptional
research and writing skills. This option differs from the
ministry project in that it is a 125-150 page work driven
by literary research towards the development and
validation of a thesis statement applied to the broader
church rather than a practical project geared towards
a local ministry setting. Permission must be granted to
present a research thesis in place of a ministry research
project by submitting the following items: a Research
Thesis Request Form; a 10-15 page exemplary research
paper; and a 1 page abstract that includes the title,
thesis statement, and general direction of the work. The
page 68 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014
Office of Professional Doctoral Studies and the potential
supervisor will review these documents and determine
whether the thesis request will be approved or denied.
If approved, the student will write a thesis proposal in
course 80600 and submit it to the Professional Doctoral
Office and the supervisor for approval. Once these parties
have accepted the proposal, the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies will recommend it to the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies for recommendation to
the faculty for approval. The student then engages in
research and writing to complete the thesis. Upon its
completion, the student will defend the thesis before
a committee of the faculty supervisor and a second
professor approved by the Director of Professional
Doctoral Studies.
Communities of Learning
Students are part of a community of learning that helps
to foster collegiality and facilitate an open and effective
learning atmosphere.
Faculty Supervision
Students receive program advising from the Office
of Professional Doctoral Studies throughout the
entire program of study. Upon completion of Project
Methodology (80600), the student is assigned to a faculty
supervisor. The supervisor is responsible for guiding the
student’s progress through the Ministry Research Project.
Policies for
Research Doctoral Studies
Overview of
Research Doctoral Programs
Research doctoral programs in the School of Theology
are designed to give students of superior ability an
opportunity to prepare themselves thoroughly for
effective leadership in Christian thought and life,
especially for pastors and teachers of Christian truth. The
Master of Theology (Th.M.) and Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) programs are designed to prepare students for
advanced Christian scholarship and the application of
scholarship to ministry.
Areas of Study
Scripture and Interpretation
Old Testament
New Testament
Biblical Studies (studies in both Testaments with
emphasis on the biblical languages)
Theology and Tradition
Church History and Historical Theology
Systematic Theology
Worldview and Culture
Christian Philosophy
Christian Ethics
Christian Apologetics and Worldview Studies
Christianity and the Arts
Ministry and Proclamation
Christian Preaching
Biblical Counseling
Pastoral Theology
Biblical Spirituality
Research Doctoral Program
Descriptions and Requirements
Master of Theology Program
The Th.M. program offers the student an opportunity to
gain greater mastery in an area of study than is normally
possible at the M.Div. level. It may be pursued in any of
the School of Theology’s four major divisions: Scripture
and Interpretation; Theology and Tradition; Worldview
and Culture; Ministry and Proclamation. The student
will have a major focus within the area of study, such as
New Testament within the Scripture and Interpretation
Division or Christian Preaching within the Ministry and
Proclamation Division. The program acquaints students
with the resources and research methods of a major area
of study and offers focused time for further reflection in
preparation for ministry. The program may be completed
in one year of full-time study.
Curriculum
Normally no academic work done prior to matriculation
will be credited toward the Th.M degree. The exception to
this policy is course 81020: Graduate Research Seminar.
Th.M coursework consists of advanced masters
electives and doctoral seminars. In at least two courses
papers must be produced that demonstrate research
ability. For the masters electives the student will contract
with the professor for an additional hour of credit beyond
that which is normally given for the course. At least
one doctoral seminar must be taken. A maximum of
two doctoral seminars may be taken. For the doctoral
seminar, the student will complete exactly the same
assignments as Ph.D. students. Up to 10 hours of doctoral
seminar credit may be transferred into the Ph.D. program
if a student is later admitted.
In cases where the student has already demonstrated
an ability to do academic research and writing at an
advanced level, he or she may be invited to write a thesis.
This invitation is made by the faculty supervisor and area
faculty in consultation with the Associate Vice President
for Doctoral Studies. The thesis is written under the
direction of the faculty supervisor and will be read by and
defended orally before a thesis committee.
Learning Outcomes
• The student will be able to plan research in an area of
specialization and, where appropriate, will relate the
work to the larger context of theological study.
• The student will be able to conduct research using
standard scholarly tools and methods.
• The student will be able to communicate the results of
his/her research effectively.
• The student will be able to demonstrate an advanced
understanding of an area of specialization.
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 69
Grading Policy
The minimum passing grade in any course taken for Th.M.
credit is a “B–” (2.7 on a 4.0 scale). A student who earns
a grade lower than a “B–” will lose credit for that course
and will be placed on probation. The student may also be
subject to an enrollment review.
Thesis
The first stage in the thesis writing process is the
submission of a thesis proposal, which is called a
prospectus. Following approval of the prospectus by
the student’s supervisor, the thesis committee, and the
Associate Vice President for Doctoral Studies the student
completes a defense draft of the thesis. When the faculty
supervisor determines that the draft is defensible it will be
submitted to the Office of Doctoral Studies from which
it will be distributed to the thesis committee. At the oral
defense the committee will assign a grade to the written
work and to the oral defense. A passing grade requires
the unanimous approval of the committee. The thesis
committee will also inform the student of any additional
revision required for the final submission.
Program Requirements
Non-Thesis Track
• 81020 Graduate Research Seminar........................................... 2
• Advanced masters level elective................................................ 4
• Advanced masters level elective................................................ 4
• Advanced masters level elective................................................ 4
• Advanced masters level elective or doctoral seminar...... 4
• Advanced masters level elective or doctoral seminar...... 4
• Doctoral Seminar.............................................................................. 4
Total program credit hours............................................................26
Thesis Track
• 81020 Graduate Research Seminar........................................... 2
• Advanced masters level elective or doctoral seminar...... 4
• Advanced masters level elective................................................ 4
• 81050 Thesis Research................................................................... 4
• Doctoral seminar............................................................................... 4
• Advanced masters level elective or doctoral seminar...... 4
• 81060 Thesis Writing....................................................................... 4
Total program credit hours............................................................26
Doctor of Philosophy Program
The Ph.D. program equips students for advanced
scholarship, effective teaching, and service. The
program is intended to qualify graduates for college or
seminary teaching. It may also be useful in the pastorate
and in other church-related ministries that benefit
from advanced Christian scholarship. The program
requirements for the Ph.D. in the School of Theology vary
somewhat from field to field. The student consults with
his or her faculty supervisor to design a plan of study
that will result in breadth and depth of scholarship in the
major field of study and conversance with one or more
minor fields. Students typically need four years of fulltime study to meet all program requirements, however,
there are many factors that may affect program length.
Program Requirements
• Eight area seminars........................................................................32
• 81020 Graduate Research Seminar........................................... 2
• 81200 Teaching Principles and Methods................................. 4
• 81300 Higher Education................................................................. 2
• Five colloquia (one per semester)...........................................10
• Comprehensive exams.................................................................... 0
• Dissertation.......................................................................................... 8
• Dissertation defense........................................................................ 8
Total Ph.D. credit hours...................................................................66
Area Seminars
Ph.D. study is pursued in large part through area seminars
in the student’s major and minor fields of study. A
minimum of eight area seminars is required. Seminars
should be chosen in consultation with the faculty
supervisor.
General Seminars
Three seminars that are not specific to the student’s
areas of study are required. Students are expected to
take the Graduate Research Seminar (81020) prior to
the beginning of their coursework. The Higher Education
Seminar (81300) may be taken at any point in the
student’s program. Teaching Principles and Methods
(81200) may be taken any time after the student
completes two years of study. For each of these seminars
most of the preparation is done before the first day of
class.
Colloquia
The colloquium serves as a forum for exploration of
literature, issues, and developments in the student’s major
field of study. Students are required to take a minimum
of five colloquia. Area faculty or the faculty supervisor
may request that a student participate in the colloquium
beyond the five colloquia program requirement.
Independent Study
An internal independent study is undertaken with a
SBTS professor who will oversee the student in guided
reading and writing on a specific topic. Approval must
be granted by the student’s supervisor and the research
doctoral studies office. Students are only allowed, but
not required, to take one of these during their program.
To request an independent study, Ph.D. students must
submit the Independent Study Contract.
An external independent study can be undertaken
either by a student enrolling in a Ph.D.-level course at
another institution or by a student contracting with a
professor at another institution who will oversee the
student in guided reading and writing on a specific
topic. In both instances approval must be granted by
the student’s supervisor and by the Research Doctoral
Studies office.
The External study must contribute to the student’s
major field of specialization, or be clearly relevant to the
student’s program of study. The student is responsible
for all fees and ensuring that an official transcript of the
course work taken and given to the Office of Academic
Records. Upon completion of the course, the student is to
submit a descriptive and evaluative report of the external
study to the Faculty Supervisor.
• Two research languages................................................................ 0
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Division
Internal
External
Old Testament Studies: 82877, 82977
New Testament Studies: 83877, 83977
Church History: 84467, 84477
Theology: 84877, 84977
Philosophy: 85467, 85477
Ethics: 85967, 85977
Missiology: 86177, 83877, 86477
Biblical Counseling: 87877, 87977
World Religions: 88177, 88777
language requirement when that language is a
primary language for student’s research.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will be able to demonstrate a
thorough acquaintance with literature in area
of specialization and the ability to engage
critically and productively in this area.
• Students will be able to demonstrate
conversance with the literature in the general
field of study and fields closely related to the
area of specialization.
• Students will be able to demonstrate the ability
to use standard research tools and methods in
the chosen field of study.
• Students will be able to plan and conduct
research in the area of specialization and to
communicate its results effectively.
• Students will be able to demonstrate an
understanding of the role of the professor
inside and outside the classroom in institutions
of Christian higher education.
Grading Policy
Evangelism & Church Growth: 88577, 88677
The minimum passing grade in any course taken
for Ph.D. credit is a “B” (3.0 on a 4.0 scale). A
student who earns a grade lower than a “B” will
lose credit for that course and will be placed on
probation. The student may also be subject to
an enrollment review.
Church Ministries: 91577, 91677
Comprehensive Examinations
Preaching: 86967, 86977
Biblical Spirituality: 88967, 88977
Language Requirements
A reading knowledge of two modern and/or classical
languages is normally required. Additional languages may
be required if the committee of instruction determines
that it is necessary for the student’s program of study.
Common language options are German, Latin, French,
and Spanish. The decision as to which languages are to
be learned should be guided by the student’s particular
research needs. In all cases the supervisor must approve
the languages chosen. Students majoring in biblical fields
may be required to take additional study in Hebrew,
Greek, or cognate languages.
A student may satisfy a language requirement by
earning a passing grade in a non-credit language
course offered by the seminary by passing a language
proficiency examination, or completing an equivalent
language course at another institution. The Office of
Doctoral Studies administers these examinations several
times a year. The language requirements must be
demonstrated prior to the taking of the comprehensive
examinations.
Exceptions to the language requirement require
approval by the student’s faculty supervisor and the
Associate Vice President for Doctoral Studies. Exceptions
are sometimes made in the following cases. (1) Students
whose study will benefit from empirical research,
statistics, or a computer language may be permitted to
substitute demonstrated proficiency in one of these for
a language requirement. (2) International students may
be permitted to use their native language to satisfy a
Comprehensive examinations corresponding
to the student’s areas of study are
administered at the conclusion of the
student’s coursework. Most students take
three comprehensive examinations; biblical
studies majors take four. The student should
consult his or her supervisor for guidance
in preparing for these exams. Additional
preparation beyond what has been required
for seminars and colloquia will normally be
expected. Students majoring in Old Testament
or New Testament are required to pass a
biblical language comprehensive exam. Failure
on any part of a comprehensive exam will
result in a review of the student’s status by the
committee of instruction and the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies.
Dissertation
Each student must demonstrate the ability to
conduct and report on original research. The
first stage in this process is the submission
of a dissertation proposal, which is called
a prospectus. Following approval of the
prospectus by the student’s supervisor, the
dissertation committee, the Associate Vice
President for Doctoral Studies, and the faculty,
the student completes a defense draft of the
dissertation. When the faculty supervisor
determines that the draft is defensible, it will be
submitted to the Office of Doctoral Studies from
SOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014School of Theology | page 71
which it will be distributed to the dissertation committee
and to an external reader who is a recognized scholar
in the student’s field of study. At the oral defense the
committee will consider the evaluation of the external
reader and will assign a grade to the written work and to
the oral defense. A passing grade requires the unanimous
approval of the committee. The dissertation committee
will also inform the student of any additional revision
required for the final submission.
page 72 | School of TheologySOUTHERN SEMINARY CATALOG | 2013-2014